Top 10 Best-Selling Hybrid Cars

While gas prices are currently low, the summer of 2008 saw prices soar above $4 per gallon, alarming many drivers. This spike sparked a surge in eco-conscious driving, with many opting for fuel-efficient vehicles. Consumers eagerly sought out information on hybrid cars, aiming to make greener choices.

Hybrid vehicles utilize an electric motor to operate when the gasoline engine isn't needed, allowing the combustion engine to turn off and conserve fuel. This efficiency has driven the growing popularity of hybrids. Once associated only with environmentally conscious drivers, hybrids now appeal to a broader audience, including luxury car manufacturers.

Continue reading to discover which hybrid models dominated sales in 2008.

10: Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

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After winning the MVP Award at Super Bowl XLIII, Santonio Holmes made an eco-conscious choice. As part of his prize, he selected the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid from Cadillac's lineup, showcasing his interest in green driving.

In 2008, 801 buyers embraced the Escalade Hybrid, proving that luxury and sustainability can coexist. This hybrid model features a V-8 engine, accommodates up to eight passengers, and boasts advanced interior technology and towing capabilities. It also offers a 25 percent boost in fuel efficiency compared to the standard Escalade. While its size limits its fuel economy compared to smaller hybrids, it appeals to those needing ample space, utility, and luxury while making a more environmentally friendly choice.

9: Lexus LS600h

For those seeking a luxury hybrid without the bulk of an SUV like the Escalade, the Lexus LS600h was a popular choice. In 2008, 980 buyers opted for this model, the most spacious and opulent hybrid offered by Toyota Motor Corp., Lexus' parent company.

With an MSRP exceeding $100,000, the LS600h caters to buyers prioritizing luxury over fuel savings. It achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. What sets the LS600h apart is its electric motor, which not only enhances fuel efficiency at low speeds but also boosts the gas engine's performance. This makes it the ideal hybrid for affluent drivers seeking both eco-friendliness and excitement.

8: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and GMC Yukon Hybrid

The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon Hybrids share the same features and seating capacity as the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. However, their more affordable prices explain why 5,876 buyers opted for the Tahoe and Yukon in 2008, compared to the 801 who chose the Escalade Hybrid.

The Tahoe and Yukon Hybrids are more than just budget-friendly alternatives to the Escalade. The Tahoe Hybrid earned the title of 2008 Green Car of the Year from the Green Car Journal, solidifying its eco-friendly reputation. While their size limits their fuel efficiency, these hybrids are ideal for those needing to tow heavy loads or transport large groups, offering a valuable boost in miles per gallon.

7: Nissan Altima Hybrid

Nissan is often viewed as a secondary competitor to Japanese automotive giants like Toyota and Honda. However, for those seeking a family sedan with enhanced performance, the Nissan Altima has consistently been a top pick. The Nissan Altima Hybrid now allows drivers to not only overtake other vehicles but also reduce their visits to the gas station.

In 2008, Nissan sold 8,819 Altima Hybrids. While these figures fall short of Honda and Toyota's hybrid sales, the Altima Hybrid's performance is notable given its limited availability in just eight states. Expanding its market reach could significantly boost both sales and Nissan's standing in eco-friendly driving.

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6: Lexus RX 400h

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The sixth best-selling hybrid in the U.S. for 2008 is another luxury offering from Lexus. Over 15,000 Lexus RX 400h hybrid SUVs were sold in 2008, nearly doubling the sales of the Nissan Altima Hybrid, the next most popular hybrid in the country.

The Lexus RX 400h attracts buyers seeking the perfect blend of luxury, reliability, SUV functionality, and eco-friendliness. Beyond its fuel efficiency, it delivers a driving experience that defies typical hybrid expectations, offering strong acceleration, excellent handling, and a high-tech, luxurious interior. The only drawback is its premium price, starting at around $42,000.

5: Toyota Highlander Hybrid

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For those seeking a vehicle that combines fuel efficiency with the ability to transport both passengers and cargo, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an ideal choice. It delivers on all fronts, offering practicality without compromising on eco-friendliness.

The Highlander Hybrid is a midsize SUV that comfortably seats seven and provides ample storage space for luggage, sports gear, or pets. While not designed for extreme off-roading, it handles rough weather and unpaved roads with ease. Its hybrid powertrain boosts city fuel economy by 37 percent, solidifying its position as the fifth best-selling hybrid in the U.S.

4: Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids

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While General Motors has three hybrids on this top 10 list, Ford stands out as the only domestic automaker with hybrids in the top five. The Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner Hybrids together rank as the fourth best-selling hybrids of 2008. These models are nearly identical, both being compact SUVs that seat five and share almost the same mechanical features.

In 2008, Ford sold close to 20,000 Escape and Mariner Hybrids, as buyers appreciated the blend of small SUV practicality with enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. With Ford expanding its hybrid lineup, including the highly praised Ford Fusion Hybrid, the Escape and Mariner Hybrids serve as a strong foundation for future growth.

3: Honda Civic Hybrid

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The Honda Civic Hybrid stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options among the top 10 best-selling hybrids in the U.S. Apart from its hybrid powertrain, it is nearly identical to the standard Civic model.

In 2008, over 31,000 Honda Civic Hybrids were sold, thanks to its affordability and eco-friendly appeal. It retains the enjoyable driving dynamics of the conventional Civic, offering responsive handling, decent acceleration, and Honda's renowned reliability. However, its position as the most affordable hybrid may soon be challenged by the reintroduction of the Honda Insight in April 2009, a midsized hybrid expected to be priced lower than the Civic Hybrid.

2: Toyota Camry Hybrid

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Toyota dominates the hybrid market, and while the Prius is its most famous model, the Toyota Camry Hybrid secured the second spot in 2008 hybrid sales. Over 46,000 units were sold that year, showcasing its widespread appeal.

Unlike the Prius, which stands out with its unique design, the Camry Hybrid blends in seamlessly with its non-hybrid counterpart. Externally, only a hybrid badge distinguishes it, but under the hood, it delivers an impressive 12 extra miles per gallon in the city and a 26 percent overall improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the standard Camry. The Camry Hybrid offers the best of both worlds: eco-friendliness, a comfortable interior, and solid performance, all contributing to its popularity.

1: Toyota Prius Hybrid

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The Toyota Prius, though smaller than the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, is a powerhouse in hybrid sales. In 2008, Toyota sold an impressive 158,886 Prius hatchbacks, surpassing the combined sales of the other nine hybrids on this top 10 list.

The Prius has consistently been the most popular hybrid, thanks to its exceptional fuel efficiency and iconic design, which has come to symbolize hybrid vehicles for many. A redesign is planned for 2010, with Toyota promising improved fuel economy, a larger and more comfortable interior, solar panels on the roof to power accessories, and production in the U.S.

While the impact of a redesign is always uncertain, the growing excitement around the Prius suggests it will remain a dominant force in the hybrid market for years to come.